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🐔 Animal Ordinances/Chickens & Livestock

Clovis vs Selma

How do chickens & livestock rules compare between Clovis, CA and Selma, CA?

Clovis and Selma have similar restriction levels.

Clovis, CA

Fresno County

Some Restrictions

Backyard chickens allowed in Clovis residential zones with setbacks; roosters typically prohibited. Larger livestock restricted to R-A (agricultural-residential) and A-E zones. Lot size and coop placement standards apply.

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Selma, CA

Fresno County

Some Restrictions

Selma regulates the keeping of fowl, livestock, and wild animals under SMC Title VI, Chapter 2 (Animals), Section 6-2-21 (Prohibition of Fowl, Livestock and Wild Animals), which restricts or prohibits keeping such animals in certain areas based on zoning classification and lot characteristics. The keeping of chickens, roosters, ducks, geese, turkeys, and other poultry, as well as goats, sheep, hogs, cattle, horses, and other livestock, is generally prohibited in standard residential zoning districts where lot sizes are typical of urban development. Agricultural zones and properties with larger parcels may allow livestock and poultry keeping subject to conditions designed to prevent nuisance impacts on neighbors. The City of Selma Animal Services Division, located at 2831 W. Front Street, enforces animal keeping regulations and responds to complaints about prohibited animals on residential properties. Animals kept in any zone must be maintained in sanitary conditions and may not create a nuisance through excessive noise such as rooster crowing, offensive odors from animal waste, attraction of flies and vermin, or unsanitary conditions presenting public health concerns. Residents considering keeping chickens or livestock should verify zoning eligibility with the Selma Community Development Department before acquiring animals, as violations can result in mandatory removal.

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Key Facts Comparison

FactClovisSelma
HensAllowed, coop setbacks-
RoostersProhibited residential-
HorsesR-A/A-E zones only-
SlaughterProhibited residential-
ZoningCheck lot zone designation-
Code Section-SMC 6-2-21
Residential Zones-Livestock generally prohibited
Agricultural Zones-May allow animal keeping
Animal Services-2831 W. Front St, (559) 218-1937

Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.

Clovis FAQ

Can I keep chickens in my Clovis backyard?

Yes, hens are allowed in most residential zones with coop setback requirements. Roosters are typically prohibited due to noise.

How many chickens can I have?

Limits vary by zone and lot size. Check Clovis zoning ordinance for your specific parcel; larger lots permit more birds.

Selma FAQ

Can I keep chickens in my Selma backyard?

It depends on your property's zoning classification. SMC 6-2-21 prohibits fowl and livestock in most standard residential zones. Agricultural zones and larger-lot properties may permit chicken keeping subject to conditions. Contact the Selma Community Development Department to verify your zoning eligibility before acquiring birds.

Are roosters allowed in Selma?

Roosters are generally restricted in urban residential areas due to noise concerns from crowing that begins before dawn. Even in zones where hens may be permitted, rooster keeping is typically prohibited or subject to special conditions. Contact Selma Animal Services at (559) 218-1937 for guidance specific to your property.

Where do I report a neighbor keeping livestock illegally in Selma?

Contact Selma Animal Services at 2831 W. Front Street or call (559) 218-1937. Animal Services officers investigate complaints about prohibited animal keeping in residential zones and work with property owners to achieve compliance with SMC 6-2-21.

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